If there’s one denim trend that fashion people consistently return to, it’s cropped jeans. Quietly earning capsule wardrobe status, cropped denim gives a polished yet effortless finish to a look, and is a failsafe option that suits an array of body types. Oh, and thanks to their versatility, cropped lengths are a staple piece that can be styled up or down, just like your everyday straight legs.
Always neatly finishing above the ankle, the leg shape is down to your personal preference. Whether it’s a classic straight-leg, a cool wide-leg or a more on-trend barrel-leg option, they comfortably do it all. And the other notable beauty of a cropped jean is that they allow full focus to be on your shoes. Whether worn with a strappy sandal, ballet flat or trainers, higher hemlines ensure the perfect frame for whatever footwear is taking your fancy right now.
After spending years putting up with soggy feet thanks to the unpredictable British weather, I’m welcoming cropped jeans with open arms, but particularly for what (I hope) will be a warm summer. Wondering how to wear them? I’ve rounded up five outfits that make cropped jeans a true hero piece.
1. Denim Shirt + Cropped Jeans + Flip Flops
Style Notes: Hear me out—Double denim can be such a chic yet cool look, and it’s one of those easy options that can easily be thrown on at a moment’s notice, but still look instantly put-together. Take inspiration from Rebecca [pictured above] and opt for different coloured denims to pair together—a cream shirt feels much softer for summer.
Shop the Look:
H&M
Short-Sleeved Denim Shirt
The crochet detailing on the sleeve gives this such a summery feel.
CITIZENS OF HUMANITY
Miro Mid-Rise Barrel-Leg Jeans
A cropped barrel-leg jean looks so chic with a fun sandal.
Havaianas
Red Slim Flip Flops
Burgundy brings a pop of colour to a monochrome look.
CELINE
Triomphe 01 Sunglasses in Acetate
Celine’s Triomphe sunglasses are an iconic pair for the brand.
2. White Shirt + Light Blue Cropped Jeans + Slingback Heels
Style Notes: A white shirt is a classic wardrobe staple and is such a versatile item that can easily be styled up or down. In the summer months, opt for a linen or hemp fabric for a lighter, breathable finish, but crisp cottons shirts will easily see you through until winter too. And let’s face it, a slingback heel instantly elevates any look, and this look comes office-approved too.
Shop the Look:
Pair with cropped jeans or layer over a summer dress.
FRAME
The Hang Mid-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
Such a fresh shade of light blue.
MANGO
Patent Heeled Shoes
Slingback heels instantly elevate an outfit.
3. Cami Top + Cropped Jeans + Mules
Style Notes: Sylvie’s look [above] is a great way to make cropped jeans feel elevated and evening ready. Switch a white tee for a satin or lace trimmed cami top to bring texture to your outfit, and pair with a backless heeled mule for a little extra height without compromising on comfort. It’s a simple yet chic option that’s always going to score highly.
Shop the Look:
Mango
Lace Trim Asymmetric Vest Top, Light Beige
M&S
High Waisted Wide Leg Cropped Jeans
M&S is my go-to high-street brand for jeans.
MANOLO BLAHNIK
Maysale 50 Buckled Suede Mules
The Maysale is Manolo Blahnik’s signature shoe.
Missoma
Micro Pearl Beaded Necklace
A pearl beaded necklace adds a summery finish.
4. Sheer Top + Indigo Cuffed Jeans + Sandals
Style Notes: ‘Jeans and a nice top’ is the eternal dress code for so many occasions, and Léna’s outfit shows why it’s such a such reliable formula. A sheer top is simple yet still stylish, and fashion insiders are wearing theirs from day-to-night with a plain, black triangle bra, or for a sexier edge, a lacy one instead.
Shop the Look:
Reformation
Ayla Knit Top
How to make a sheer top feel elevated.
Anthropologie
The Kayden Carpenter Barrel Jeans by Pilcro
A deep indigo wash jean is so versatile.
Bobbies
June – Vinyl Black
These have such a Parisian feel to them.
Le Specs
Lunita | Black Smoke Mono
Le Specs sunnies always look so much more expensive than they are.
5. Striped T-Shirt + White Cropped Jeans + Flip Flops
Style Notes: There’s something about flip flops and jeans that just looks so good. Tanks, jumpers, and cardigans will always work with them, but pairing them with a casual, striped tee is an easy way to make an everyday look feel effortlessly cool. Stripes are trending in a major way this season, so keep an eye out for sporty styles with vintage energy—they have the very well-qualified backing of brands like Miu Miu and Burberry.
Shop the Look:
A striped t-shirt is such a chic wardrobe staple that can be styled in so many different ways.
Reformation
Kat Low Rise Straight Cropped Jeans
White jeans are a must in summer.
Toteme
Croco-Embossed Flip Flops
A croc finish brings texture to a look.
